Star pitcher says injury rules out World Classic

Staff writer, with CNA

Sun, Dec 16, 2012 - Page 20

Baltimore Orioles pitcher Chen Wei-yin said on his return home yesterday that he will not play for Taiwan in next year’s World Baseball Classic due to a knee injury.

Chen, who arrived in Taiwan with his wife, son and mother-in-law, said the Orioles want him to rest and recover from the injury he sustained during this year’s playoffs.

Speaking of his entry to Major League Baseball (MLB) in the US last season, the 27-year-old left-hander said his performances were as consistent as when he played in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league from 2004 to last year.

However, Chen said he has received more attention in MLB and is delighted to bring honor to his country.

Chen announced in October that he would not play for Taiwan in the World Baseball Classic because he wanted to spend more time with his family and focus on preparing for next year’s MLB season.

During Chen’s rookie season, he was 12-11 with a 4.02 ERA, 154 strikeouts and 57 walks in 192 2/3 innings.